Welcome to The Modern Latino Podcast, with your hosts Gene and Ivan!
Our goal is simple: have thoughtful conversations about the issues impacting our lives, highlight individuals doing great things in their communities, and finally, celebrate all of the beautiful cultures that make-up the Latino diaspora.
We do this by keeping an open mind, trying to learn something new, and always treating each other with respect.
On this episode we have a terrific conversation with our new friend, Carlos Acta.
Carlos is a graduate of Columbia University where he majored in Political Science and International Relations. He has worked as a US - UN congressional Liaison organizing specialized briefings for Members of Congress and UN officials. A native son of the Bronx, he is the perfect guest to help us kick-off our first episode.
We discuss the situation currently happening in the Middle East and learn about the historical events behind both sides of the war. This is a really complex subject, but hopefully you will learn something new via this discussion.
Want to learn more?
Books mentioned on this podcast include:
A History of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict - Mark A. Tessler
From Beirut to Jerusalem - Tom Friedman
The Question of Palestine - Edward Said
The Case for Israel - Alan Dershowitz
Thank you for listening. Please subscribe for future episodes!
Contact us at:
info@themodernlatino.com
Welcome to The Modern Latino Podcast!
In this episode your hosts, Gene & Ivan, set the stage for what you can expect from this podcast.
Our goal is simple: have thoughtful conversations about the issues impacting our lives, highlight individuals doing great things in their communities, and finally, celebrate all of the beautiful cultures that make-up the Latino diaspora.
We do this by keeping an open mind, trying to learn something new, and always treating each other with respect.
Please subscribe to the show and join us for the ride!
Reach out to us via: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode we interview NYC based writer and comedian, Miguel Fernandez. Miguel has studied and performed sketch comedy and improv over the past several years. Recently he has performed in groups specializing in Improv en Espanol. We love supporting up and coming artists and we think he is a rising star.
Miguel shares his story with us and explains how his journey as a child of Colombian immigrant parents led him on the path to pursue his dream of performing on stage. We go over his experiences and discuss several themes like how his family supported his dreams, the challenges that Latino comedians face, the work that goes on behind the scenes, and how Social Media is changing the promotion game.
Check out his upcoming show at the P.I.T. Loft in NYC on Jan 10, 2024 at 6pm.
You can find Miguel on Instagram: @miguelfromqueens
For more Modern Latino:
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode we speak with one of the hottest chefs in NYC today, Derick Lopez, owner of The Freakin Rican restaurant in Astoria, NY.
Featuring a menu of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, Chef Derick delivers a culinary delight to anyone looking for some authentic “Boricua” flavors. The food is delicious and the service and ambience deliver an experience that you will remember and come back for more. However, the food is just scratching the surface about what makes Chef Derick special.
Derick shares his story with us and explains how the challenges of growing up as a poor, gay man from the NYC projects helped shape his work ethic leading to his success. He shares how his passion for cooking came from his mother, and how it also manifested into his calling to be an advocate for his Puerto Rican people.
This is an episode that will inspire anyone who has ever had a dream and or stumbled along the way (or for anyone who loves finding a delicious meal). Derick is a great example of a Modern Latino and we hope you enjoy this episode.
Make sure to visit The Freakin Rican in person or online:
The Freakin Rican
4306 34th Avenue
Queens, NY 11101
https://thefreakinricanrestaurant.com/
Find amazing recipes and more on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCust-AGsioC4ifkoxr1c2gA
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/TheFreakinRicanRestaurant/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/thefreakinricanrestaurant/
X:
https://twitter.com/freakinricanres
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Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
THANK YOU for listening!
You can find us via:
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode:
Gene and Ivan sit down to catch up on what’s been going on lately, including:
· The NYC earthquake and stories about the eclipse.
· Ivan shares his random thoughts about dinosaur evolution possibilities
· Ivan shares his thoughts on Wrestlemania 40 and the new Latino Champions!
· The guys talk about Haters and share their thoughts on overcoming adversity.
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Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
THANK YOU for listening!
Find us at:
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode we speak with our friend, Will. He is a former police officer who now spends his time studying and investing in Crypto currency. He helps explain the reasons he became involved with this form of investing and explains the risks and rewards that can be expected. We enjoyed learning about the Crypto market, as well as, Will’s journey towards building generational wealth for his family.
This is an important subject given the impact that Crypto has had on the financial markets. Given that there are is such wide interest in this from people young and old, we wanted to see what we can learn and hopefully educate our audience a little more before they even consider jumping into this world.
The Modern Latino podcast shares only general information which does not constitute accounting, legal, tax, investing or other professional advice. Listeners should not act upon the content or information found here without first seeking appropriate advice from an accountant, financial planner, lawyer or other professional. The views shared in this episode are meant only to educate and entertain our audience.
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Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
THANK YOU for listening!
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Tonight, we’re speaking with Officer Vickie Ojeda of the Nassau County Police Department. She is also the President of the NCPD’s Hispanic Society. Vickie is a wonderful person who is extremely passionate about her community. Raised in Queens, she is of Puerto Rican and Mexican heritage. She shares how she grew up surrounded by friends of all different backgrounds which helped shape the person she is today.
We have a great conversation about the importance of recognizing and celebrating where you come from, and the significance of understanding that while Latino’s share many things in common, we all still have our own unique cultures and traditions. We also spend some time reviewing the challenges we have within our own community.
Vickie is a great example of the impact that a Latina woman can have in the field of Law Enforcement. Her origin story is not what you might expect it to be, but trust us when we say that you will be inspired by it.
Her work with the NCPD Hispanic Society is a wonderful example of how she goes beyond the scope of her job to make a difference within her department and her local community. They work hard to produce events like their Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala which has become recognized as the most diverse event the NCPD has. They also host a Prom Dress Event that collects new and gently used clothes that local High School students can wear to their Proms. On top of that they support a Mentor Program for young people interested in becoming Police Officers.
We hope you enjoy this episode!
For more information about the Nassau County Police Department Hispanic Society, visit their Instagram at: @NCPHispanicSociety
If you want to learn more about careers in Law Enforcement, email them at: NCPDHispanicSociety@gmail.com
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
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Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode:
May 4th (Star Wars day) and it’s Puerto Rican connection
Cinco de Mayo
Knicks Playoff run
Ryan Garcia antics and current state of Boxing
Campus Protests – Schools & Universities must do better
Where are the smart, well-intentioned people in Politics
Upstate NY District Attorney behavior over traffic stop
We hope you enjoy this episode!
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode we interview DJ Benny Bee. Benny has worked with legendary Freestyle Music artists like Coro, Lissette Melendez, Tony Moran and more. He was also a Producer on the hit track “Within My Heart” by Voyce. While now retired and living the good life in Florida, he hails from East New York, Brooklyn. Benny shares his story with us and as learn how he made his way onto the blossoming NYC Freestyle circuit.
We discuss Freestyle music’s lasting endurance with fans all over the world still lining up to attend concerts and performances. Benny even shares some behind the scene stories. We also talk about upcoming artists that we should be listening to now.
This is a must listen episode for every Freestyle music fan!
We hope you enjoy!
Make sure to check Benny out via:
TikTok – bennybee221
Instagram - @dj_benny_bee
Facebook – DJ Benny Bee
Mixcloud – Dj Benny Bee
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode:
“…the most dangerous thing you can do is not working out…” – Jethro Cardona
We interview Jethro Cardona, owner of the CrossFit Chief Nation gym in Massapequa, NY.
In addition to being a business owner, Jethro also serves the community as a Nassau County Police officer working with youth communities via the Police Activity League unit. Originally from Queens and Brooklyn, he shares how his Puerto Rican mother wanted him to have the best educational opportunities and eventually moved them to Long Island. It’s there where he eventually became a police officer, got married and started a family.
We discuss how the pandemic helped him realize the need in our community for better physical fitness opportunities. This led Jethro to becoming a fitness coach and eventually to his official venture into the competitive world of the Fitness industry with the launch of CrossFit Chief Nation.
A truly inspirational conversation on so many levels. Jethro teaches us that if you have a dream that nothing can stand in your way of making it a reality.
We hope you enjoy!
For more information on Crossfit Chief Nation, check out:
Website - crossfitchiefnation.com
Instagram - @crossfitchiefnation
Facebook – crossfit.chief.nation
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode:
We interview Sacha Hamilton who is a mom, entrepreneur, cannabis enthusiast, and the creator of The Dope Deck card game. With the legalization of cannabis becoming more widespread and less taboo, Sacha wanted to create a game that allowed like-minded individuals to have fun and build relationships, all while safely getting their smoke on. Thus, The Dope Deck was born.
Now based in southern California, Sacha comes from a unique background and shares how her experiences living around the world in places like Saudi Arabia and Austria helped shape her outlook on life and drove her to ultimately become an entrepreneur.
We have a healthy discussion about the social stigmas that marijuana use is still known for. We also take time to share our own individual perspectives regarding marijuana use and how the consequences of regular usage can vary by economic class or racial groups.
It must be said that Sacha is absolutely hilarious, charming, smart, and we could go on. Her Main Character Energy is on full display throughout the conversation and we could have easily continued our conversation into the wee hours of the night.
If you like to have fun with your friends, while smoking or not, you definitely will want to pick-up The Dope Deck and see where the fun takes you! Ask for it at your local smoke shop or check out the links below.
We hope you enjoy!
For more information on The Dope Deck, check out:
Website – TheDopeDeck.com
Instagram - @thedopedeck
Sacha’s Instagram - @qvergara_
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode:
We recap and discuss our interview with Sacha Hamilton.
Deadpool & Wolverine movie!
We discuss the state of Super Hero movie genre.
Gene talks about crying at the movie “My Life”.
Ivan shares stories from his last trip.
A review of “The Pastrami Queen” restaurant in Penn Station.
Cross country travel.
Reflections on the Olympics.
The challenge of negative commentary on social media.
We discuss the challenges of including transgender players in sports.
We’ll be taking a break for the summer but will be returning with all new episodes!
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/@TheModernLatinoPodcast
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
We kick off our new season with a fun and inspiring conversation with Samantha Morales, the Founder and President of Branches Long Island – a 501c3 nonprofit organization run by volunteers who are determined to make a difference on Long Island. Based in Middle Island, NY, Branches Long Island supports their community by providing services like: Blessing Boxes (packages filled with food, diapers, formula, toiletries, and more), Food Pantry, Emergency Bags (filled with basic food items), Community Outreach, and Holiday & Event assistance (back to school supplies, Thanksgiving, etc).
Branches Long Island was founded in 2019 by Samantha Morales after she realized the amount of people in need on Long Island. She started out doing it alone and once she became a legal 501c3 she quickly grew from supporting 40 families to over 1600. She is joined by an amazing group of women who dedicate their time every week to better the community.
Samantha shares her story with us and explains how her tough upbringing helped shape her values and ultimately to the formation of Branches Long Island.
Please consider supporting Branches Long Island by visiting:
Branches Long Island
588 Middle Country Road, Middle Island, New York 11953
(631) 448-7832
https://instagram.com/brancheslongisland
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BranchesLongIslandGroup
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode we discuss:
- Warm weather holidays.
- Trump rally Comedian’s bad joke regarding Puerto Rico.
- Halloween trip to Salem.
- We share our own spooky stories – encounters on the Queen
Mary, Ouija, Spells, and more.
- We talk about our favorite Halloween movies.
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
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https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode:
We speak with Paula Andrea Arbelaez-Stone. She is a Bilingual (English & Spanish) NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 17 years of experience in the counseling field. Some of her specialties are Individual, couples & family counseling. She certifications and training in REBT and Trauma-Informed Therapy.
Paula shares her background and explains how she found herself in this field after migrating to the US from Colombia. She uses her experience of coming from an immigrant family to help her support her clients.
We discuss issues that Latinos face every day that can prevent them from seeking and obtaining mental health support such as cultural stigmas, the political environment, resource limitations, language barriers and more.
We also discuss sources of stress that can cause mental health issues such as social media and social political stress – which many people are dealing with on the back of the U.S. Presidential election. She shares valuable insight and recommendations that we know will be helpful to anyone who listens.
If you or someone you know is or may need help finding Mental Health resources, feel free to contact Paula via the information below. Also, feel free to pass along the additional resource information that Paula shared below:
Paula Andrea Arbelaez-Stone LMHC
(631) 561-1987 or (631) 371-3134
https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1241939
Long Island Counseling Resources:
Long Island Crisis Center: Free Counseling and Crisis Hotline:
https://www.longislandcrisiscenter.org/
Town of Brookhaven Free Counseling Services - Ages 12-24
https://www.brookhavenny.gov/333/Counseling-Services
Suffolk County Resource Guide for Immigrants
Suffolk County Directory of Behavioral Health Services
Nassau County Mental Health Resources for Children and Families
https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/4987/Mental-Health-Resources-for-Children-and
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Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
THANK YOU for listening!
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
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https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this interview:
We sit down with Isabella Ferrari (aka Penny), a Buddhist witch, author, and holistic transformational coach. Penny, who is of Brazilian and Italian heritage, is the founder of Greenwitchcom, a global community of over 100,000 people dedicated to exploring witchcraft, ancient practices, and spiritual wisdom. She launched her business during the 2021 pandemic and has since experienced remarkable growth, offering personalized coaching, masterclasses, and workshops to share her knowledge.
Penny is the author of Witchcraft Simplified, Crystals Simplified, and she's currently working on her next book. In March 2023, she launched Our Sacred Sisterhood, a membership space focused on empowering women and supporting their healing journeys. Central to Penny's work is her belief in the importance of healing both individual wounds and the collective wounds of Witch and Sisterhood, themes that play a key role in her coaching and community-building.
Dividing her time between Italy and the UK, Penny has devoted her life to studying witchcraft and ancient healing practices. She continuously seeks innovative ways to blend these traditions into transformative methods that help individuals find peace, happiness, and balance.
Additionally, Penny’s YouTube channel offers a wide range of engaging and insightful content, covering various topics that we know you’ll enjoy. We’re excited to share this conversation with you!
For more information about Penny and her work, please visit:
Website – PennyTheWitch.com
Instagram - greenwitchcom
Youtube - Penny The Witch
TikTok - greenwitch_com
Patreon - SacredSisterhood
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
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X (Twitter):
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Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
This is a special episode as we are officially launching our video podcast channel!
In this interview, we chat with Andy Amendola, the creator of Red Racer Books, whose mission is to introduce young readers to the multifaceted world of motorsports. Through vividly illustrated stories, the books highlight diverse characters in various roles, inspiring curiosity and showcasing opportunities beyond the driver’s seat. By focusing on science, technology, teamwork, and diversity, Andy aims to ignite dreams, foster bonds between parents and children, and encourage a love for discovery and shared passion.
Andy shares his personal journey of becoming an author and micro-publisher, which began during the pandemic with some TV binge-watching and a Kickstarter campaign. What started as a newfound hobby has blossomed into a meaningful platform for introducing young readers to Formula 1 racing while celebrating cultural diversity and promoting STEM education. He also reflects on the joy of involving his family in this exciting creative endeavor.
As a first-generation American with roots in Uruguay, Andy opens up about how family expectations have shaped his career path. He explores the unique experience of being a “modern Latino,” balancing two cultural worlds. This conversation offers insights for aspiring authors and is packed with inspiration for anyone chasing their dreams. Don’t miss this compelling episode!
For more information about Andy his wonderful series of books, please visit:
Website – www.RedRacerBooks.com
Instagram - RedRacerBooks
Amazon - RedRacerBooks
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THANK YOU for listening!
Send us feedback by emailing: info@themodernlatino.com
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/@TheModernLatinoPodcast
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode:
We speak with Martin Mayorga, founder of Mayorga Coffee, a company built on the mission of supporting producers in Latin America and addressing the inequities in the food industry. Martin shares his journey, from spending his childhood in Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Peru to immigrating to the United States with his family. Witnessing the privilege of life in the U.S. compared to the socioeconomic disparities faced by food producers, Martin knew by the age of 18 that he wanted to use his access to the U.S. market to create meaningful change.
Martin opens up about the challenges his company has faced as a Latino-founded brand. For years, Mayorga Coffee battled assumptions that their products were secondary in quality, often relegated to stereotypes because of their name. However, Martin and his team have remained steadfast in their mission, proudly standing by the quality of their products and the richness of their heritage.
This conversation highlights the importance of redefining perceptions, uplifting marginalized communities, and creating a legacy of respect and empowerment. Martin’s story and vision are a testament to resilience, pride, and the power of using business as a force for good.
To learn more about Mayorga Coffee and to buy their products visit:
https://mayorgacoffee.com/
Our audience can get 15% off of their order of Mayorga Coffee by using code: "Martin15"
Visit their social media at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MayorgaOrganics
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayorgacoffee/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC55tFTLQDlBi9-ebfSID2kQ
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mayorgacoffee/
Martin Mayorga's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinmayorga1
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/themodernlatinopodcast/
Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/@TheModernLatinoPodcast
X (Twitter):
https://twitter.com/ModernLatinoPod
Like the show? Then please consider buying us a cafecito:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/themodernlatino
The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode:
We sit down with Brandon Espinosa, the creator of The Salsa Project, an educational initiative dedicated to celebrating and preserving the art of Salsa. Through documentaries, events, and community engagement in NYC, The Salsa Project seeks to honor Salsa’s rich cultural legacy and inspire young Latinos to embrace their heritage.
Brandon shares his deep personal connection to Salsa, from childhood memories at family parties to the influence of legendary artists like El Gran Combo and Fania. He discusses the inspiration behind The Salsa Project, the challenges of launching the initiative, and the vital role storytelling plays in preserving this vibrant tradition. We explore how Salsa remains a powerful expression of Latino identity and how its future depends on keeping the music and dance alive for younger generations.
Looking ahead, Brandon talks about exciting upcoming projects, including collaborations with the International Salsa Museum, and reflects on the most rewarding moments in his journey. He also offers words of encouragement for young Latinos passionate about their cultural heritage. Whether you’re a longtime Salsa lover or just discovering its magic, this episode will inspire you to embrace the rhythm, history, and passion of this iconic art form.
To learn more about The Salsa Project and support their mission:
Web: TheSalsaProject.com
Instagram: thesalsaprojectnyc
Facebook: thesalsaprojectnyc
Support the mission: The Salsa Project NYC
Please like, follow, and support The Modern Latino:
Web:
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Youtube:
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The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
In this episode:
In celebration of Women's History Month, we shine a spotlight on Leslie Arredondo-Cordero, a trailblazer in the world of music strategy and marketing. With an impressive career spanning Paramount, TikTok, and her own consultancy, Deluz Music, Leslie has been at the forefront of integrating music into branding, advertising, and entertainment.
We explore her journey from freelancing to becoming a leader in creative music strategy, her time as Commercial Music Lead at TikTok, and the groundbreaking campaigns she’s worked on—securing iconic tracks from A Tribe Called Quest, Beastie Boys, and AC/DC for major marketing initiatives. Leslie also shares insights into the evolving music industry, the impact of social media on music discovery, and how emerging trends are shaping the future of sync licensing and brand partnerships.
Beyond music strategy, Leslie is a dedicated advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As Co-Chair of SOMOS, Paramount’s Latine Resource Group, she helped drive authentic representation in media, earning an Imagen Award for her impactful work. In this episode, she discusses the importance of representation in the music industry and how DEI initiatives can create lasting change.
Tune in as Leslie shares her career highlights, advice for aspiring music professionals, and her vision for the future of music marketing. Whether you're a music lover, industry professional, or brand strategist, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed!
Join us in celebrating the achievements of women like Leslie, who are shaping the future of music and media.
To learn more about Leslie, you can find her at:
LinkedIn: LAC Music
Web: LAC-Music.com
Instagram: LAC Music
Please like, follow, and support The Modern Latino:
Web:
https://themodernlatino.com
Instagram:
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